In a nutshell
The Kelpies – two gigantic horse-head sculptures – get all the attention but the surrounding Helix park is a great place for children: a 860-acre urban green space with the Forth and Clyde canal running through it. Opened in 2013, the £43m park has become a day-trip favourite for families in Scotland’s Central Belt. On the water, take your pick from pedalos, canoes and kayaks. On bikes, there’s an easy path network, connected to two National Cycle Routes. But with its musical stairs, climbing frames for all ages and spiralling slides, the play park steals the show.
Fun fact
There’s a sign on the slides encouraging adults to be big kids and have a go, too.
Best things about it
Trampolines built into the ground (another “fun for adults too” feature). It’s a cracking day out for dogs as well, with plenty of water to swim in. There’s a “splash play” area where dozens of jets shoot water into the air – and changing areas to dry off . Let’s be honest, it’s Scotland and you’re unlikely to dry in the sun.
What about lunch?
There are three-quid sandwiches and paninis in the Horsebox cafe, but queues can build up quickly. Bring a packed lunch if you want to save time and money. Teas and coffees are reasonably priced, all £1.80 or below.
Exit through the gift shop?
The only souvenir you need is a photo of The Kelpies. Visible from miles around, they’re beautiful up close, even if the critics slated them.
Getting there
It’s a 30-minute drive from Edinburgh and Glasgow on the M8. Cyclists should put aside a good two to three hours if travelling alongside the Union Canal from Edinburgh. The Helix is a 15-minute cycle from Falkirk High railway station, which is also well served by the local bus. Be prepared for a tough cycle up some seriously steep hills back to Falkirk High station.
Value for money?
Yes, entry is free, as is car parking.
Opening times?
It’s a public park and never closes.
Verdict
7/10. As with most public art, the kids will be bored of the Kelpies within minutes. Luckily, possibly Scotland’s best play park is in their shadow. It’s got a strong returnability factor, thanks to thoughtful design: for example, climbing frames with graded ability levels for different ages. If only they’d put those slides inside the giant horse heads.
• This feature was amended on 11 August. It’s not the Union canal running through the park, as originally stated, but the Forth and Clyde canal.
